Sophie's Snail

Set in Great Britain, this delightful story relates the daily antics of a lively four-year-old girl. Sophie likes cornflakes, sunglasses, card games and great-great-aunt Alice. She is less fond of dresses, sardines in tomato sauce, plastic ponies and Dawn, her young neighbor. The discovery of a yellow snail sparks Sophie's interest in the animal kingdom. Someday, she decides, she would like to buy her own farm, and she starts a fund for the cause. In the meantime, Sophie is content to use the potting shed as a barn for a wide assortment of tiny creatures. Charming illustrations complement King-Smith's ( Babe the Gallant Pig ; Harry's Mad ) down-to-earth style and gentle wit. From a cast of engaging characters, Sophie emerges as a rugged, uncompromising heroine who will win readers' hearts. Ages 5-9. (Oct.)